NMS is proud to be the Connecticut affiliate of Dance for PD®, the award-winning, internationally-acclaimed program of The Mark Morris Dance Group. Dance for PD offers dance classes for people with Parkinson’s disease and related neurological disorders through its network of partners and affiliates in more than 300 communities in 25 countries.
COME DANCE WITH US! In Dance for PD® classes, people are empowered to explore movement and music in ways that are refreshing, enjoyable, stimulating, and creative. Dance for PD® focuses on developing artistry and grace while addressing concerns specific to people with Parkinson's and other neurological disorders, such as balance, flexibility, coordination, gait, social isolation, and depression.
Participants enjoy artistic and creative expression and the enjoyment of social interactions with others experiencing similar challenges. No dance experience is necessary and walkers, canes, and wheelchairs are welcome. (While many may experience health benefits or the alleviation of symptoms, it should be noted that this program is not intended to be a therapeutic offering.)
Classes are held weekly and are open to people with any type of movement disorder, their companions, and visitors. Classes are free of charge and available for drop-in anytime.
Mondays with Suzanne Sepe, 10:30 a.m.
IN-PERSON:
Middletown Senior Center
61 Durant Terrace, Middletown, CT 06457
*Ample free parking
For more info: email Suzanne
Wednesdays with Rachel Balaban, 10:30 a.m.
WEEKLY ZOOM:
Class link and for more info: email Rachel
IN-PERSON: October 2 and 23, November 6 and 20, December 18
College Center at Crozier-Williams
270 Mohegan Avenue Parkway, New London, CT 06320
Fridays with Laura Richling, 10:00 a.m.
WEEKLY HYBRID
Zoom link here.
Meeting ID: 899 6808 0299
Passcode: NMSdance23
For more info: email Laura
IN-PERSON:
Trinity Episcopal Church Parish Hall, 1109 Main Street, Branford, CT 06405
Free parking available outside the church and on adjoining streets. Facing the church, Parish Hall is on the right.
Follow the handicap-accessible ramp up to the red door.
"For an hour and a half, once a week in dance class, I take on a new persona, one without the diagnosis of Parkinson’s. I leave outside the door present limits and anxieties for the future. This is a time to join with others and appreciate to the utmost the respite. Time stands still and I am enveloped in the world of movement, music and a fine-tuned, joyful and funny teacher. I am conscious of the value of each movement that seems simple but is actually encouraging more fluidity and less rigidity. There are no judgments and the underlying message is to do what you are able with joy, laughter, and creativity. I am delighted to focus on the abilities that come forth, the strengths that remain. I walk out the door standing taller, with more external and internal balance and a steadier gait."
DANCE FOR PD® PARTICIPANT
For more information about NMS's Dance for PD® classes, please contact Tracey Albert, NMS's Dance for PD® Coordinator, at talbert@nmsnewhaven.org or 203-624-5189, extension 57.
To learn more about the Dance for PD® approach, please visit the Dance for PD® website.
NMS’s Dance for PD® classes are funded by grants and donations, including support from: American Parkinson Disease Association–CT Chapter • Connecticut Parkinson’s Working Group • The Community Foundation of Greater New Haven • Chelsea Groton Foundation, Inc. • Department of Economic and Community Development, Office of the Arts/State of Connecticut • Frank Loomis Palmer Fund, Bank of America, N.A., Trustee • Yale Movement Disorders Center
Dance for PD® and the Dance for PD® logo are trademarks of Mark Morris Dance Group, used under license.
